Main Entry: cite

Pronunciation: \ˈsīt\

Function: transitive verb

Inflected Form(s): cit·ed; cit·ing

Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French citer to cite, summon, from Latin citare to put in motion, rouse, summon, from frequentative of ciēre to stir, move — more at -kinesis

Date: 15th century

1 : to call upon officially or authoritatively to appear (as before a court)
2 : to quote by way of example, authority, or proof <cites several noteworthy authors>
3 a : to refer to; especially : to mention formally in commendation or praise b : to name in a citation
4 : to bring forward or call to another's attention especially as an example, proof, or precedent <cited the weather as a reason for canceling the picnic>

synonyms see summon

— cit·able \ˈsī-tə-bəl\ adjective